10965788

Multi-Path Transmission Control Protocol (mp-Tcp) Option Tunneling for Mp-Tcp Proxies

PublishedMarch 30, 2021
Assigneenot available in USPTO data we have
Technical Abstract

Patent Claims
20 claims

Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.

Claim 1

Original Legal Text

1. A method, comprising: reading, at a first proxy, a first multi-path transmission control protocol (MP-TCP) information from at least one first MP-TCP header, the at least one first MP-TCP header included in a first MP-TCP subflow, the first MP-TCP subflow included in a first MP-TCP session; encapsulating, by the first proxy, the first MP-TCP information in a second MP-TCP session, wherein the second MP-TCP session is different from the first MP-TCP session, wherein the second MP-TCP session comprises a set of proxy subflows to a second proxy, wherein the first MP-TCP information is distributed identically to each of the set of proxy subflows; and sending the encapsulated first MP-TCP information through the second MP-TCP session to the second proxy prior to sending to a server, wherein a return path comprises a path from the server to the second proxy to the first proxy to a client that originated the first MP-TCP information, and wherein the return path is used to send additional MP-TCP information.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to improving data transmission efficiency in multi-path transmission control protocol (MP-TCP) networks, particularly in scenarios involving proxy servers. The problem addressed is the inefficiency and complexity of managing MP-TCP sessions across multiple network paths, especially when intermediaries like proxies are involved. Traditional MP-TCP implementations struggle with maintaining consistent data flow and session management when traffic is routed through proxies, leading to potential bottlenecks or disruptions. The method involves a first proxy reading MP-TCP information from headers within a subflow of an initial MP-TCP session. This information is then encapsulated into a new MP-TCP session, distinct from the original, and distributed identically across multiple subflows within this new session to a second proxy. The encapsulated data is forwarded to the second proxy before reaching the final server. The return path for responses follows the reverse route: server to second proxy to first proxy and back to the client. This approach ensures seamless data transmission and session continuity, even when proxies are involved, by maintaining consistent MP-TCP information across all subflows. The method optimizes network resource utilization and reduces latency by leveraging multiple paths while preserving the integrity of the original MP-TCP session.

Claim 2

Original Legal Text

2. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: connecting the second MP-TCP session to a remote proxy through a plurality of links.

Plain English Translation

A method for managing multi-path transmission control protocol (MP-TCP) sessions involves establishing a first MP-TCP session between a local device and a remote proxy over a primary network path. The method further includes connecting a second MP-TCP session to the same remote proxy through multiple network links, allowing data to be transmitted over multiple paths simultaneously. This approach enhances reliability and throughput by distributing traffic across available connections, mitigating congestion and improving performance in scenarios where a single path may be unstable or insufficient. The technique is particularly useful in environments with diverse network conditions, such as mobile or hybrid network setups, where maintaining stable communication is critical. By leveraging multiple links, the method ensures continuous data flow even if one or more paths experience disruptions, thereby optimizing resource utilization and reducing latency. The solution addresses challenges in maintaining high-performance, resilient connections in dynamic network environments.

Claim 3

Original Legal Text

3. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: decapsulating a second MP-TCP information from the second MP-TCP session; reading the second MP-TCP information from the second MP-TCP session; and including the second MP-TCP information in at least one second MP-TCP header, wherein the at least one second MP-TCP header being included in a packet, and wherein the packet being sent as part of the first MP-TCP subflow.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to multipath TCP (MP-TCP) communication systems, specifically improving data transmission efficiency and reliability in networks with multiple available paths. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently manage and utilize multiple subflows in MP-TCP sessions to optimize data transfer while maintaining session integrity. The method involves establishing a first MP-TCP session with a plurality of subflows, including a first subflow and a second subflow. The first subflow is used to send data packets, while the second subflow is monitored for MP-TCP information. The method further includes decapsulating MP-TCP information from the second subflow, reading this information, and incorporating it into at least one MP-TCP header within a packet. This packet is then transmitted as part of the first subflow. This approach allows for dynamic adjustment of data transmission based on real-time MP-TCP information from multiple subflows, enhancing overall performance and reliability in multipath environments. The technique ensures that critical MP-TCP metadata is properly utilized across subflows, improving synchronization and reducing packet loss or retransmission delays. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where network conditions vary, requiring adaptive routing and load balancing across multiple paths.

Claim 4

Original Legal Text

4. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: encapsulating the first MP-TCP information in at least one of an Internet protocol (IP) option header, a transmission control protocol (TCP) option header, or a payload of a packet.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 5

Original Legal Text

5. The method of claim 1 , further comprising: terminating the first MP-TCP subflow at a proxy; originating, at the proxy, at least one MP-TCP proxy subflow of the second MP-TCP session; and copying, by the proxy, data between at least the first MP-TCP subflow and the at least one MP-TCP proxy subflow of the second MP-TCP session.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to multipath TCP (MP-TCP) communication systems, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently managing data transfer across multiple network paths. The method involves establishing a first MP-TCP subflow between a client and a proxy, where the proxy acts as an intermediary. The proxy terminates the first subflow and originates at least one additional MP-TCP proxy subflow as part of a second MP-TCP session. Data is then copied between the terminated subflow and the new proxy subflow, enabling seamless data transfer across different network paths. This approach improves reliability and performance by leveraging multiple paths while maintaining efficient data handling through the proxy. The proxy's role ensures that data is properly routed and managed between the original and new subflows, optimizing network resource utilization and reducing latency. The method is particularly useful in scenarios where network conditions vary, such as in mobile or heterogeneous network environments, where maintaining stable and high-performance connections is critical. By dynamically managing subflows through a proxy, the system enhances data transfer efficiency and adaptability.

Claim 6

Original Legal Text

6. The method of claim 1 , wherein the encapsulating further comprises: defining a new option type for the at least one first MP-TCP header; and re-writing, by the first proxy, the at least one first MP-TCP header as the new option type.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 7

Original Legal Text

7. A system, comprising: a memory; and a processor executing instructions from the memory to: read, at a first proxy, a first multi-path transmission control protocol (MP-TCP) information from at least one first MP-TCP header, the at least one first MP-TCP header included in a first MP-TCP subflow, the first MP-TCP subflow included in a first MP-TCP session; encapsulate, by the first proxy, the first MP-TCP information in a second MP-TCP session, wherein the second MP-TCP session is different from the first MP-TCP session, wherein the second MP-TCP session comprises a set of proxy subflows to a second proxy, wherein the first MP-TCP information is distributed identically to each of the set of proxy subflows; and send the encapsulated first MP-TCP information through the second MP-TCP session to the second proxy prior to sending to a server, wherein a return path comprises a path from the server to the second proxy to the first proxy to a client that originated the first MP-TCP information.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 8

Original Legal Text

8. The system of claim 7 , wherein the processor further executes the instructions from the memory to: connect the second MP-TCP session to a remote proxy through a plurality of links.

Plain English Translation

A system for managing multi-path transmission control protocol (MP-TCP) connections in a network environment addresses the challenge of optimizing data transmission efficiency and reliability across multiple network paths. The system includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, enable the establishment and management of MP-TCP sessions. Specifically, the system connects a second MP-TCP session to a remote proxy through multiple network links, allowing data to be distributed across these links to improve throughput, reduce latency, and enhance fault tolerance. This approach leverages the capabilities of MP-TCP to dynamically allocate traffic across available paths, ensuring robust and efficient data transfer even in the presence of network fluctuations or failures. The system may also include additional features such as monitoring network conditions, selecting optimal paths, and dynamically adjusting data distribution to maintain performance. By integrating these functionalities, the system provides a scalable and resilient solution for high-performance data transmission in diverse networking scenarios.

Claim 9

Original Legal Text

9. The system of claim 7 , wherein the processor further executes the instructions from the memory to: decapsulate a second MP-TCP information from the second MP-TCP session; read the second MP-TCP information from the second MP-TCP session; and include the second MP-TCP information in at least one second MP-TCP header, wherein the at least one second MP-TCP header being included in a packet, and wherein the packet being sent as part of the first MP-TCP subflow.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 10

Original Legal Text

10. The system of claim 7 , wherein the processor further executes the instructions from the memory to: encapsulate the first MP-TCP information in at least one of an Internet protocol (IP) option header, a transmission control protocol (TCP) option header, or a payload of a packet.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 11

Original Legal Text

11. The system of claim 7 , wherein the processor further executes the instructions from the memory to: terminate the first MP-TCP subflow at a proxy; originate, at the proxy, at least one MP-TCP proxy subflow of the second MP-TCP session; and copy, by the proxy, data between at least the first MP-TCP subflow and the at least one MP-TCP proxy subflow of the second MP-TCP session.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 12

Original Legal Text

12. The system of claim 7 , wherein the processor further executes the instructions from the memory to: define a new option type for the at least one first MP-TCP header; and re-write by the first proxy the at least one first MP-TCP header as the new option type.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 13

Original Legal Text

13. A non-transitory machine-readable storage medium encoded with instructions executable by at least one hardware processor of a network device, the non-transitory machine-readable storage medium comprising instructions to: read, at a first proxy, a first multi-path transmission control protocol (MP-TCP) information from at least one first MP-TCP header, the at least one first MP-TCP header included in a first MP-TCP subflow, the first MP-TCP subflow included in a first MP-TCP session; encapsulate, by the first proxy, the first MP-TCP information in a second MP-TCP session, wherein the second MP-TCP session is different from the first MP-TCP session, wherein the second MP-TCP session comprises a set of proxy subflows to a second proxy, wherein the first MP-TCP information is distributed identically to each of the set of proxy subflows; and send the encapsulated first MP-TCP information through the second MP-TCP session to the second proxy prior to sending to a server, wherein the server binds the set of proxy subflows with an alternate subflow from a client that originated the first MP-TCP information, wherein the alternate subflow was transmitted without the first proxy or the second proxy.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to network communication protocols, specifically improving multi-path transmission control protocol (MP-TCP) performance in proxy-based systems. The problem addressed is the inefficiency of handling MP-TCP sessions across proxies, where traditional methods disrupt the multi-path capabilities or introduce latency. The solution involves a first proxy reading MP-TCP information from headers in an initial MP-TCP subflow of a client-initiated session. This information is then encapsulated into a new MP-TCP session, distinct from the original, and distributed identically across multiple proxy subflows to a second proxy. The second proxy forwards this encapsulated data to a server, which combines these proxy subflows with an alternate subflow directly from the client. This approach maintains multi-path efficiency while allowing proxy intermediaries to process traffic without disrupting the original MP-TCP session structure. The system ensures seamless integration of proxy-processed and direct client subflows at the server, optimizing bandwidth utilization and reducing latency in multi-path network environments.

Claim 14

Original Legal Text

14. The non-transitory machine-readable storage medium of claim 13 , further comprising instructions to: connect the second MP-TCP session to a remote proxy through a plurality of links.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 15

Original Legal Text

15. The non-transitory machine-readable storage medium of claim 13 , further comprising instructions to: decapsulate a second MP-TCP information from the second MP-TCP session; read the second MP-TCP information from the second MP-TCP session; and include the second MP-TCP information in at least one second MP-TCP header, wherein the at least one second MP-TCP header being included in a packet, and wherein the packet being sent as part of the first MP-TCP subflow.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 16

Original Legal Text

16. The non-transitory machine-readable storage medium of claim 13 , further comprising instructions to: encapsulate the first MP-TCP information in at least one of an Internet protocol (IP) option header, a transmission control protocol (TCP) option header, or a payload of a packet.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 17

Original Legal Text

17. The non-transitory machine-readable storage medium of claim 13 , further comprising instructions to: define a new option type for the at least one first MP-TCP header; and re-write by the first proxy the at least one first MP-TCP header as the new option type.

Plain English Translation

This invention relates to multipath TCP (MP-TCP) communication systems, specifically addressing the need to modify MP-TCP headers for improved compatibility or functionality. The system involves a first proxy that processes MP-TCP packets, particularly those containing MP-TCP headers. The proxy identifies at least one first MP-TCP header in a packet and defines a new option type for that header. The proxy then rewrites the header to conform to the newly defined option type. This modification allows the header to be interpreted differently by downstream systems, enabling enhanced routing, compatibility, or other functional improvements. The invention ensures that the rewritten headers maintain the necessary information for proper MP-TCP operation while adapting to specific requirements of the network or application. The solution is particularly useful in environments where legacy systems or specific protocols require modified header formats for seamless integration. The proxy's ability to dynamically redefine and rewrite headers provides flexibility in handling diverse network conditions and protocol variations.

Claim 18

Original Legal Text

18. The method of claim 1 , wherein the at least one first MP-TCP header is repeated in multiple IP fragments.

Plain English translation pending...
Claim 19

Original Legal Text

19. The system of claim 7 , wherein the at least one first MP-TCP header is repeated in multiple IP fragments.

Plain English Translation

A system for managing data transmission in a network environment, particularly in scenarios involving multipath TCP (MP-TCP) connections, addresses the challenge of efficiently handling fragmented data packets. The system includes a network device configured to process MP-TCP headers within IP fragments. Specifically, the system ensures that at least one MP-TCP header is repeated across multiple IP fragments, allowing for reliable reconstruction of the original data stream even if some fragments are lost or corrupted during transmission. This repetition of headers enhances robustness in data recovery, particularly in networks with high packet loss rates or unstable connections. The network device may also include components for detecting and reassembling fragmented packets, ensuring that the MP-TCP headers are correctly interpreted and utilized for data reconstruction. The system is designed to operate in environments where data is divided into smaller IP fragments for transmission, such as in high-latency or bandwidth-constrained networks. By repeating the MP-TCP headers, the system improves the reliability of data transfer, reducing the likelihood of data loss or corruption during transmission.

Claim 20

Original Legal Text

20. The non-transitory machine-readable storage medium of claim 13 , wherein the at least one first MP-TCP header is repeated in multiple IP fragments.

Plain English Translation

A system and method for managing data transmission in a network environment, particularly in scenarios involving multipath TCP (MP-TCP) connections and IP fragmentation. The technology addresses inefficiencies in data transmission where MP-TCP headers are lost or corrupted during fragmentation, leading to connection failures or performance degradation. The invention improves reliability by ensuring that critical MP-TCP headers are preserved across fragmented IP packets. Specifically, the system repeats at least one MP-TCP header in multiple IP fragments, allowing the receiving device to reconstruct the original MP-TCP header even if some fragments are lost or damaged. This redundancy enhances data integrity and connection stability, particularly in networks with high packet loss or fragmentation rates. The solution is implemented via a non-transitory machine-readable storage medium containing instructions for executing the described functionality. The method involves detecting the need for fragmentation, duplicating the MP-TCP header across fragments, and transmitting the fragments with the repeated headers. The system may also include mechanisms to verify header consistency upon reassembly, ensuring accurate data reconstruction. This approach is particularly useful in wireless or congested networks where packet loss is common, improving overall transmission reliability without requiring significant changes to existing network protocols.

Patent Metadata

Filing Date

Unknown

Publication Date

March 30, 2021

Inventors

Jean Tourrilhes
Puneet Sharma

Want to explore more patents?

Browse 5M+ US patents with plain-English claim translations and AI-generated analysis.

Citation & reuse

Analysis on this page is generated by Patentable — an AI-powered patent intelligence platform. AI-generated summaries, explanations, FAQs, and analysis may be reused with attribution and a visible link back to the canonical URL below. Patent abstracts and claims are USPTO public domain.

Cite as: Patentable. “MULTI-PATH TRANSMISSION CONTROL PROTOCOL (MP-TCP) OPTION TUNNELING FOR MP-TCP PROXIES” (10965788). https://patentable.app/patents/10965788

© 2026 Nomic Interactive Technology LLC. Machine-readable context available at /api/llm-context/10965788. See llms.txt for full attribution policy.

MULTI-PATH TRANSMISSION CONTROL PROTOCOL (MP-TCP) OPTION TUNNELING FOR MP-TCP PROXIES